SPECIAL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Prescription opioids have always been used to alleviate serious pain, such as after surgery. The opioid crisis, that is the rise in opioid overdose deaths, can be outlined in three distinct waves. The first wave began with increased prescribing of opioids in the 1990’s, with overdose deaths involving prescription opioids (natural and semi-synthetic opioids and methadone) increasing since at least 1999.
The Dangers of Purchasing Fentanyl Online
In recent years, the internet has become a significant marketplace for various substances, including prescription medications. One of the most concerning substances that some may inquire about is fentanyl. The question arises: can you buy fentanyl online? Understanding the implications and risks of this practice is essential.
Personalized support for addressing your child’s substance use or addiction available in English and Spanish. In 2014, the Pennsylvania Department of Health released a standing order, which allows anyone to visit a pharmacy and receive Naloxone without a prescription. The medication may not be available for same-day pickup, but it can often be ordered and available within a day or two. If a pharmacy does not have it in stock, request that it be ordered or ask if another location has it in stock.
You should also call 911, just like for any medical emergency, so extra help is on the way. If children are caught in school with drugs, they can be arrested, and the investigation will probably reach back to the household with Child and Family Services involved. Juvenile justice is a sensitive topic, with the focus on rehabilitation.
Boulder County Public Health (BCPH) is urging caution following the discovery of a powdered form of fentanyl circulating in the county’s illicit drug market. Two early models of handheld chemical analyzers, or spectrometers, came out in quick succession. The compact, lightweight, and robust devices have simple push button controls and work by scanning. For illicit or dangerous substances such as fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine, the screen turns red.
The Chinese sellers shipped purchases through other countries to reduce the risk of the drugs being detected and seized by customs officials. Throughout the pandemic, more kids turned to social media to connect with others when in-person connection was challenging, if not impossible. But along with interacting with friends, some kids began communicating with people offering the opportunity to purchase drugs, many of which can be delivered directly to their homes. Fentanyl test strips (FTS) are lateral flow chromatographic immunoassay test strips designed to quickly and cheaply test urine for the presence of fentanyl. Harm reduction advocates established that fentanyl test strips can also be used to test liquid samples for the presence of fentanyl, allowing pre-consumption testing of samples to check if fentanyl is present or not.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid used medically for pain management, particularly in severe cases. It is significantly more potent than morphine and is often associated with a high risk of overdose and death.
The first phase of the fentanyl test strip distribution program is funded by $1.25 million from Wisconsin’s share of the American Rescue Plan Act, and is one of many strategies DHS is using to reduce the harms of drug use. Since 2019, 134,280 doses of NARCAN® have been distributed at no cost through community agencies to people who use opioids or drugs that could be mixed with opioids, and their families and friends. So far this year, more than 5,000 overdoses have been reversed with NARCAN® distributed through this program. NARCAN® also can be purchased at more than 500 pharmacies without a prescription under a standing order. Locations where NARCAN® is available can be found on the DHS website.
Legality of Buying Fentanyl Online
Purchasing fentanyl online can be illegal and highly dangerous. Consider the following points:
- In many countries, including the United States, fentanyl is classified as a controlled substance.
- Buying it without a prescription is illegal and poses serious legal risks.
- Online vendors may sell counterfeit or tainted products, increasing the risk of overdose.
Risks of Purchasing from the Internet
Buying fentanyl online exposes individuals to several risks:
- Health Risks: Misuse or overdosing on fentanyl can lead to respiratory failure and death.
- Legal Consequences: Purchasing illicit substances can lead to criminal charges.
- Fraud: Many online sellers are scams, and you may lose your money without receiving anything.
Alternatives to Online Purchases
If you or someone you know is in need of pain management, consider these safer alternatives:
- Consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Explore approved medications offered through lawful means.
- Consider non-opioid pain management options, such as physical therapy.
FAQs
Can I get a prescription for fentanyl online?
- Add water to the container and mix it with your drugs, using the same drug-to-water ratio and following the same steps mentioned previously.
- Rates of overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids other than methadone, which includes fentanyl and fentanyl analogs, increased over 22% from 2020 to 2021.
- The convenience of internet shopping attracts many young buyers to turn to social media and internet platforms, not only to buy ordinary goods but also medications.
Some telemedicine services may legally prescribe fentanyl, but it must be through a licensed healthcare provider after a proper evaluation.
What should I do if I suspect someone is abusing fentanyl?
If you believe someone is misusing fentanyl, it is crucial to seek professional help immediately. Contact a healthcare provider or a local support group for assistance.
In conclusion, although the question can you buy fentanyl online may yield affirmative responses from certain illegal vendors, the risks and dangers associated with such actions profoundly outweigh any potential benefits. Maintaining safety and legality should always be the priority when it comes to medication and health.
